[Characteristics and indications of tiagabine].

INTRODUCTION

Tiagabine (TGB) is an anti epileptic drug whose mechanism of action is due to a reduction in the neurone and astrocyte uptake of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), causing its concentration at the synapse to be increased.

DEVELOPMENT

We analyze the most usual pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of TGB, considering current therapeutic indications showing its increased use in seizures and partial epileptic syndromes. We also assess the adverse effects described, with special reference to the results obtained by the Spanish group investigating TGB, in a large number of patients with a wide range of ages. Finally we review the occurrence of status epilepticus induced by using TGB.

CONCLUSIONS

It is defined as a gabaergic drug which is well tolerated and causes no visual field reduction. It may be used in epilepsies and epileptic syndromes which can be treated with it.